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The Science Museum is like a giant treasure chest, full of a range of exhibitions for almost all ages and interests, and best of all you can get free admission to most of it!

I had never imagined that I would be visiting the Science Museum in the course of my family history research, but when I learnt they had a mail coach on display I knew I had to go and have a look.

The Science Museum Mail Coach

Everything I learn about the mail coach service reinforces my belief that the mail guards were quite remarkable men. Viewing the mail coach was no exception, it convinces me even more that I should be proud of Thomas KINGHORN and his choice of occupation.

Looking at the guard’s seat on the back of the coach it seems so fragile (and looks so uncomfortable), as if it would snap off at the slightest knock. It is hard enough for me to imagine how one would get up there, let alone stay up there once the coach started bouncing along the road. Then throw in the freezing cold wind and rain and you must surely have one of the most challenging jobs at that time.